It is safer to offend certain men than it is to oblige…
“It is safer to offend certain men than it is to oblige them; for as proof that they owe nothing they seek recourse in hatred.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Avoiding appeasement of the powerful can be safer than trying to please them, because they may react with hostility when they feel owed nothing.
In simple terms: It can be safer to offend than to please those who may turn hostile.
Consider the motives of those you try to satisfy.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- personal relationships
- leadership decisions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you risk alienating powerful individuals by refusing to appease them?
- How can you balance honesty with diplomacy?
Appeasing may create expectations that lead to resentment.